Former Super Eagles forward Brown Ideye has officially called time on his football career after nearly 20 years in the game.
The 36-year-old announced his decision on social media, thanking God, his family, teammates, coaches, agents, journalists, and especially the Nigerian fans who supported him throughout his journey.
“After much thought, I’ve decided to retire from professional football,” Ideye wrote. “Thank you, Nigeria, for giving me the chance to wear the national colours. Football will always be part of my life as I begin a new chapter.”
International Career
Ideye played 28 matches for the Super Eagles between 2010 and 2016, scoring six goals. His biggest highlight came at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa, where he was part of Stephen Keshi’s team that lifted Nigeria’s third AFCON trophy. He also featured at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup.
Club Career
The striker started his career in Nigeria with Bayelsa United and Ocean Boys before moving abroad. He played in France with Sochaux, shone in Ukraine with Dynamo Kyiv, and then joined the Premier League, scoring four goals for West Bromwich Albion between 2014 and 2015.
Ideye also represented clubs like Olympiacos (Greece), Tianjin Teda (China), Málaga (Spain), and Aris Thessaloniki (Greece). He later returned to Nigeria for a short spell with Enyimba, where he made his final appearance in May 2025 against Plateau United.
Life After Football
Though his playing days are over, Ideye plans to remain in football. He has already taken up a player development role with Atlantic Business FC in Nigeria’s TCC League, showing his commitment to nurturing the next generation.